...CARRABASSETT — In 1969, Special Olympics Maine held the worlds very first Special Olympics Winter Games. It all began on a small hill in Gorham, ME, with only a handful of people. Today, in 2018 Special Olympics Maine will host 400 athletes at Sugarloaf USA for the 49th annual Special Olympics Maine Winter Games.

The events will begin on Sunday evening with one of Maine’s largest community suppers. Citizens of Carrabassett and surrounding areas will play host to the athletes by bringing in casseroles and desserts and serving over 800 people. The evening activities kick off with outdoor skating and hot chocolate, a sing-a-long and karaoke.

The competition will be underway bright and early on Monday morning, and Opening Ceremonies featuring our parade of athletes, will begin at Noon sharp. That evening athletes will be treated to a torchlight parade, fireworks and victory dance.

...The 24-year-old’s lucky Pikachu hat was doing its job, after all, and Vann was striding along smoothly at the front of the pack. He was, in fact, vying for the lead. But some of his garments were having a hard time keeping up.

“I’m losing my pants!” he shouted. Then, after grabbing hold of his waistband and correcting matters, he let loose with a bellow that showed his attitude had changed for the better.